BENTLEY Motors has revealed it could be taking on more workers in the future as it unveiled a concept for its first sport utility vehicle.

The Crewe-based company unveiled the EXP 9 F all-wheel drive luxury SUV at the Geneva Motor Show on Monday evening (March 5).

No price has been put on the new car because it is still at the concept stage, meaning there could be potential changes to the model and it has yet to get the go-ahead for production from the group.

But the six litre, twin turbocharged W12 engine with eight speed transmission, described by the company as ‘unmistakably a Bentley – yet a Bentley like none before it’ could herald a third Bentley model-line alongside the bespoke Mulsanne and the high performance Continental GT, GTC and Flying Spur.

Bentley Motors chairman and chief executive Wolfgang Durheimer said: “We are very excited by the potential of a high performance, ultra luxury Bentley SUV. We know that many Bentley customers already own SUVs, admiring their style, luxury performance and versatility.

“With the EXP 9 F, Bentley is making a clear statement of intent that we have both the expertise and desire to meet and exceed their expectations.”

News of the new design comes as the company revealed an upturn in sales in the run-up to the show.

All major regions are up with a global increase of 47% year-on-year and 894 cars delivered to customers. China and the US are going head-to-head to become Bentley’s number one global market in 2012.

A Bentley spokesman told the Chronicle: “We currently employ about 4,000 people. We are looking to expand.”